The prime minister is also an avid reader.

Narendra Modi is a name that doesn't really need any introduction. Born on September 17, 1950, Modi is the 14th prime minister of India since May 2014, the longest-serving prime minister of the country from outside the Indian National Congress. He is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

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Modi's journey in politics over the years has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride. It goes without saying that he is currently one of the world's most influential leaders.

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On the occasion of Modi's 73rd birthday today, let's delve deep into the other side of him that often gets overlooked.

Narendra Modi - The Writer

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a number of books over the years, some of which are bestsellers.

The list must begin with 'Exam Warriors' as it is inarguably the most popular book by Modi. Published in 2018, the book explores how young students can deal with the stress of exams. It gives lessons about the tests that life throws at us and how we can become the best versions of ourselves. It's written in a non-preachy style with various illustrations. It is available in 13 languages such as Hindi, English, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Odia, Gujarati, Bengali, Assamese, Marathi, Punjabi, and Urdu.

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'A Journey: Poems by Narendra Modi' comprises 67 poems written by Narendra Modi that capture various emotions of human life. The book was originally written in Gujarati and was later translated by Ravi Mantha. It showcases the spiritual side of Modi.

Besides these, Modi has also written many short stories, mostly for children.

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Narendra Modi - An Avid Reader

Not many know that Narendra Modi is an avid reader who often emphasizes the importance of reading books. Last year, he said in a speech, "Our forefathers insisted that one should study the scriptures, texts, and books again and again so that knowledge remains effective and useful. In today's age, people think that they can always take the help of internet. Technology is undoubtedly an important source of information for us, but it is not the way to replace books and learning through books."

"When information is in our mind, the brain processes that information deeply, which creates new dimensions. This opens up a way for new research and innovation. Books become our best friend in this," he added.

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Earlier, in an episode of the "Mann Ki Baat" radio program, Modi had urged the citizens of India to read books and hold discussions on books. He said, "In this digital era of Google guru, I request to you - please devote some time for reading. You will love this exercise.

My dear countrymen, you must have heard it several times from me ‘No Bouquet, But Book’, My insistence has been to gift books rather than giving bouquets while meeting and greeting other people, and several people have now started gifting books.”